Missed 10% target for journeys by bike in Scotland is tremendously disappointing
- Charity says further Government investment and action needed urgently
- Despite currently only 4% of everyday journeys being by bike, no new funding announced
- Cycling UK spokesperson available for interview
Cycling UK has expressed disappointment after Transport Secretary Michael Matheson today announced that the vision of 10% of everyday journeys in Scotland to be made by bike, by 2020, will not be met.
The 10% vision was the key aim for the Cycling Action Plan for Scotland, which was published in 2010. Despite acknowledging that the target would not be met in a statement to the Scottish Parliament, Mr Matheson did not announce any additional funding for cycling.
Reacting to the announcement, Jim Densham, Cycling UK’s Campaigns and Policy Manager for Scotland, said:
"We are tremendously disappointed that the vision for 10% of everyday journeys to be made by bike will not be met next year. We now need much greater clarity on what the Government proposes to do to fulfil that vision and by when.
“A great deal of effort has been made by many organisations to encourage more people to cycle. Whilst the increased budget for active travel was widely welcomed, this announcement shows just how much more action is needed to meet the vision anytime soon.
“With only around 4% of everyday journeys currently made by bike, it’s clear that further investment and action is urgently needed by the Government to match it’s statements on the climate emergency. A welcome first step would be to make additional funding available to progress all viable ‘Place for Everyone’ bids immediately, because we know it takes time for tarmac to be laid on cycle routes and for people to start using them.
“We commend the Government vision but it is action that’s needed now to create a network of separated cycle paths across our cities and major towns to enable anyone of any age or ability to cycle, support people to walk safely, improve air quality, reduce congestion and allows our communities to flourish."
Notes to editors
About Cycling UK
Cycling UK, the national cycling charity, inspires and helps people to cycle and keep cycling, whatever kind of cycling they do or would like to do. Over a century’s experience tells us that cycling is more than useful transport; it makes you feel good, gives you a sense of freedom and creates a better environment for everyone. www.cyclinguk.org.
Press contact information
For more information, or to arrange interviews, please contact: Sam Waller, Communications Manager for Scotland, on 07775 595998, or the national Cycling UK Press Office on 01483 238 315, 07786 320 713 or email publicity@cyclinguk.org.
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